PORVORIM: The Opposition MLAs took the government to task on Friday, questioning the disinvestment and leasing of tourist residencies for an extended period of 60 years.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai raised a starred question in the Legislative Assembly, alleging that the Department of Tourism was indiscriminately leasing its properties and GTDC Residencies to private entities. He further claimed that the properties were undervalued, and no Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines were followed during the process.
Sardesai specifically mentioned three residencies located at Britona, Miramar, and Colva, along with another property in the capital city (previously known as Quarterdeck), which were already leased out for a period of 60 years.
In response, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte stated that the government has decided to play a facilitating role rather than a promotional one. He explained that the Colva property was handed over to a private party, MGV Food and Design Pvt Ltd, for development on a BOOT (Build-Own-Operate-Transfer) basis, for the sum of Rs 19.78 crore with a five percent revenue share.
Regarding the Panjim property, Khaunte mentioned that it was leased to Trishul for Rs 63 lakh. The government had reclaimed the property after the expiration of the previous lease, as the tenant had defaulted on rent payments. The Minister added that the government had also taken the citizens’ sentiments into account and decided not to permit any high-rise building in Panjim Park.
